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36
Ice Cream.
Prominence has been given to the new Heat-Treatment
Regulations which represent a forward step in administration.
Viewed in proper perspective they do not in any degree justify
relaxation of the high standards which are necessary both in production
and distribution. Producers should exercise that care in
preparation which would be essential if no heat treatment of the
product was subsequently practised and only the firm inculcation of
this idea can ultimately succeed.
The Heat-Treatment Regulations will not abolish the carton
handled inside and out by the careless assistant who is quite
unappreciative of the necessity for careful handling by clean hands,
nor will it effect for example the container into which the oft handled
measure is carelessly tossed after sales. The employer must be
convinced that the highest standards are necessary and he in turn
must convince his employees that such standards are not only
necessary but reasonable.
It is our responsibility to initiate this line of action. Legislation
may be a good servant but our difficulties are going to be
most effectively dealt with, not by indicating the fear of consequences
but by demonstrating the value of prevention.
Our aim must be to secure as soon as possible such standards
as will enable the public to be given an article not only safe
bacteriologically but with substantial claims as a food, to which
latter regard many samples of ice cream can at the moment exercise
but a very flimsy right.
The words "ice" and "cream" are certainly at the moment
in their proper sequence, but it might be our endeavour as soon as
possible to secure a reversal of this position.
In general, the present situation must be accepted rather than
welcomed and the future viewed with anticipation rather than
complacency.
It must, however, be added that sampling results of the product
as it is sold locally to customers satisfies us that a clear improvement
has resulted as against previous years and that the upward
trend is being maintained.
During the year under review 37 samples of ice cream were
examined at the laboratory, and 11 applications for registration were
granted (1 manufacturer and 10 vendors). At the end of the year
25 persons were registered as manufacturers and 106 as vendors.
Meat.
The question of the transportation of imported meat to
butchers' shops under unsatisfactory conditions was taken up with
the Ministry of Food. I was assured that the reason for complaint
was the shortage of stockingette for covering carcases and that
active steps were being taken to see that meat is delivered to
butchers in a clean and wholesome state.